Off to work in Zurich

[ChrisMCoupe]

I posted this in P&P before realising there was a forum dedicated to Switzerland

Basically I am shortly off to work in Zurich, but without ever being to CH I would love to know things like, cost of living, places to live in and outside Zurich, things to see and do in the area etc.

http://www.pistonheads.com/gassing/topic.asp?h=0&a...

Thanks.

[ChrisMCoupe]

Thanks for the replies, all very helpful, I will certainly use the english forum.

Smilerbaker: Very helpful posts, and yes I have been pointed towards these 'luxery' furnished Swiss star apartments and had actually considered them for the first couple of weeks, but they are now firmly crossed off the list I'm a contractor at UBS so I wont be getting put up at all, so having to find somewhere myself, preferably before I go in just over 2 weeks. Staying just outside Zurich doesnt worry me as i've been told the transport links are very good.

[ChrisMCoupe]

Well it seems a long time ago since I started this thread, so thought it best I gave a quick update. The start date was delayed in the end, so have only just got out to Zurich, flew over today and just got set up in my apartment.

First impressions are very good... clean, efficient, friendly all the things you expect, so thats reassuring. Obviously until I start working over here on Monday it's rather daunting being alone in a foriegn country, but will spend this weekend getting to know the city a little better.

I'm actually staying near the lake in Bellariastrasse, near Billoweg tram station, seems a nice location and close enough to the city centre.

A few questions for any other Zurich locals:

1. Where is it best to do food shopping?
2. What are the gym facilities like in the City and any recommendations?
3. Any restuarant/bar recommendations?

Oh and if there are any meets in the area count me in, although im car-less over here, which is going to be tough to cope with

[ChrisMCoupe]

Thanks again for the welcomes and tips. I found that my local Migros metro was pretty rubbish for everything, but went to the one near sihlcity last night and was far better, although still can't find decent bread anywhere! Are small bakeries better for this?

Regarding pubs, i've not ventured to Paddy's yet, although did watch the football in the Nelson over the weekend and seemed pretty friendly. I've also heard that the Oliver Twist isn't bad so will be in there this weekend for a couple.

One week into Zurich life and I can see why so many people don't go back to the UK!

[ChrisMCoupe]

Not tonight sorry, possibly tomorrow, although i've yet to find out what the general consensus is with work mates for friday night drinking and where.

I've noticed we work in the same industry, where in Zurich are you working?

[ChrisMCoupe]

abels said:

ChrisMCoupe said:

I've noticed we work in the same industry, where in Zurich are you working?

The competing Bank to yours

You might be wrong there

The contract I was offered way back in April fell through, so because I loved the place and wanted to work in Zurich, I went to the dark side and got a contract with their biggest competitors.

Edited by ChrisMCoupe on Thursday 20th August 13:00